Menopause is an inevitable part of a woman’s life, and the symptoms that come with it can be challenging. Hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, stress, fatigue and mood swings can make everyday life difficult for menopausal women.
While Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has been a popular treatment for menopause, some prefer a more natural approach due to increased risks for breast [1] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link → and endometrial cancer [2] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link → associated with HRT. This has led to an increase in popularity of menopause supplements. In this article, we will explore the world of menopause supplements and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
- Estroven: Clinically Proven Hot Flash Reduction and Tailored Formulations
- Remifemin: Simple and Effective Solution for Menopause Symptoms
- Nature’s Craft: Comprehensive Blend for Hormonal Balance and Hot Flash Management
- Nutrafol: Addressing Hair Changes and Root Causes of Menopausal Imbalances
- HUM Nutrition: Clinically Proven Relief for Menopause Symptoms and Transparent Research Results
Estroven: Clinically Proven Hot Flash Reduction and Tailored Formulations
Estroven’s “Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief” is a popular choice, with over one million women using it ever year. It’s endorsed by pharmacists across the US. Its main ingredient is Rhapontic Rhubarb Root Extract, clinically demonstrated to lessen hot flashes (by up to 90%) and other symptoms of menopause. The company guarantees that its products are devoid of estrogen, other medications, preservatives, gluten, and lactose.
*28 count; all prices are as of writing
Estroven, a brand of Connecticut-based health and wellness company Amerifit, Inc, was first produced in 1997. Unlike other early menopause supplements that offer a singular remedy for general symptoms, Estroven offers an assortment of formulations tailored to specific needs such as weight management, stress relief and night sweats reduction.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Per Capsule |
|---|---|
| Rhapontic Rhubarb Root Extract | 4 mg |
Key Benefits
- The ingredients have been proven to diminish the primary symptoms of menopause by as much as 60%.
- It has also been clinically demonstrated to lessen hot flashes by up to 90%.
- This product can aid in alleviating night sweats and hot flashes, promote restful sleep, enhance energy levels, and assist in managing stress and irritability.
How to Use
Take one caplet daily with or without food. May be taken at any time of day. For best results, daily use for a minimum of 28 days is important and result improve with continue use.
Scientific Research
Rhapontic Rhubarb Root Extract (ERr) is a trusted resource among physicians for the alleviation of menopause symptoms. Consuming this rhubarb root extract orally appears to alleviate menopause symptoms, including reduction of hot flashes, mood enhancement, improved quality of life, and decreased fatigue.
The potency of ERr in alleviating menopausal symptoms was affirmed in a 3-month prospective randomized controlled trial involving109 perimenopausal women, 54 of whom were given a daily 4 mg dosage of ERr while the others were on placebo. By the conclusion of the 12-week period, women who were given ERr showcased a significant improvement in their overall quality of life related to menopause compared to those on a placebo. No negative side effects were reported.[3] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
The prolonged consumption of ERr for 48 and 96 weeks showcased its long-term safety as there were no incidents of endometrial hyperplasia detected, and no adverse events associated with ERr were reported.[4] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Potential Side Effects
Serious side effects may include:
- Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
- Chest pain, fast or uneven heartbeat.
- Memory loss.
- Severe stomach pain.
- Unusual sleepiness or dizziness.
- Nervousness or trouble sleeping.
- Rash, unusually dry skin, or hair loss.
- Vision changes.
Less serious side Effects may include:
- Constipation or diarrhea.
- Vision changes.
- Heartburn.
- Excessive hunger.
- Loss of appetite or unexpected weight loss.
- Headache.
- Nervousness or trouble sleeping.
- Rash, unusually dry skin, or hair loss.
Remifemin: Simple and Effective Solution for Menopause Symptoms
Remifemin is used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and irritability. It has a straightforward formula that relies on black cohosh. However, as it contains only this single ingredient, its effectiveness in addressing the full range of menopause-related symptoms might be limited compared to other supplements that have a more comprehensive blend. Despite this, Remifemin has received numerous positive reviews, suggesting it could be beneficial for some users.
*60 tablets; price as of writing
Remifemin is available in different sizes and is relatively affordable compared to other herbal menopause products. The product is produced by Enzymatic Therapy, a reputable vitamins and supplements manufacturer founded in 1986, headquartered in Springville, Utah.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Per Capsule |
|---|---|
| RemiSure® Dry Extract Equivalent to 21 mg Black Cohosh | 2.5 mg |
Key Benefits
It’s used in place of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for relieving symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irritability, and related occasional sleeplessness.
How to Use
- Take 1 tablet in the morning and 1 tablet in the evening with water. Best results with ongoing use, up to 6 months.
- Do not take other black cohosh containing products concurrently.
Scientific Research
The root of black cohosh is used as medicine and is often used for estrogen-related conditions. Taking a specific black cohosh product (Remifemin, Phytopharmica/Enzymatic Therapy) seems to help reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes. But these benefits might not occur with all products that contain black cohosh.
Based on current research, black cohosh is most likely to relieve symptoms related to reductions or imbalances in the hormone estrogen.
- A 2010 review concluded menopausal women experienced a 26 percent reduction in night sweats and hot flashes when using black cohosh supplements.[5] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
- A 2013 review of available studies found that menopausal symptoms reduced more, on average, in women taking black cohosh than in women taking a placebo.[6]
- A 2018 study in 80 menopausal women who were experiencing hot flashes, those who supplemented with 20mg of black cohosh daily for 8 weeks reported significantly fewer and less severe hot flashes than before they started the supplement.[7] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Most studies showing positive benefits did not exceed 6 months to 1 year of use. Consequently, long-term use is never recommended.
Potential Side Effects
Black cohosh can cause some mild side effects, such as stomach upset, cramping, headache, rash, a feeling of heaviness, vaginal spotting or bleeding, and weight gain.
Nature’s Craft: Comprehensive Blend for Hormonal Balance and Hot Flash Management
This supplement by Nature’s Craft is engineered to uphold hormonal stability for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. It features a unique blend of ingredients including chasteberry, wild yam, and soy isoflavones, with a focus on supporting estrogen balance and reducing menopausal discomforts. With the inclusion of black cohosh, it creates a comprehensive menopause solution, especially in managing hot flashes. A cooling element composed of menopause-targeted vitamins, red clover, licorice root extract, and dong quai capsules completes the formula.
*60 capsules; price as of writing
Since its founding in 2013, Nature’s Craft has built a reputation as a diverse provider of health and wellness supplements, with a focus on natural ingredients and top-notch production methods. Their dedication to stringent quality assurance practices, compliance with GMP guidelines, and operations within FDA-registered facilities underpins the safety and efficacy of their products.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Per Capsule |
|---|---|
| Vitamin D3 | 20 mcg |
| Riboflavin (VitaminB2) | 3 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 1 mg |
| Magnesium | 31.25 mg |
| Dong Quai Root | 400 mg |
| Lemon Balm Extract | 300 mg |
| Red Clover | 80 mg |
| Chasteberry | 50 mg |
| Soy Bean Extract | 50 mg |
| Black Cohosh Root | 30 mg |
Key Benefits
- Provides mood support during an important life chapter.
- Improves unpleasant menopause symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes.
- Helps to regulate hormones and supports thyroid balance.
How to Use
2 capsules daily preferably with meals or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Scientific Research
Dong Quai Root
Dong quai, scientifically known as Angelica sinensis, is a well-regarded plant within Chinese traditional medicine, particularly for addressing female health issues. The root of this plant is believed to have an impact on estrogen and various other hormones. Dong quai is commonly utilized to alleviate menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, migraines, and a range of other conditions.
- A 2006 study in Italy suggests that dong quai possesses estrogenic properties, offering a potential natural solution to regulate hormone levels and alleviate menopause symptoms without resorting to synthetic chemicals.[8] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
- Another study discovered that a combination of dong quai and German chamomile demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes, with a reduction rate of up to 96%.[9] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Lemon Balm Extract
Lemon balm, scientifically known as Melissa Officinalis, belongs to the mint family of herbs. It possesses chemical constituents that appear to induce calming and sedative effects, mitigating issues like insomnia and other sleep-related disorders. This is particularly helpful during menopause, a phase often marked by common symptoms like anxiety, hot flashes, and restlessness.
A 2013 research study demonstrated that a combination of lemon balm and valerian root considerably enhanced sleep quality in 100 menopausal participants, in comparison to a placebo.[10] Trusted Website ScienceDirect.com is a trusted database of scientific and medical publications. Open the link →
Chasteberry
The chaste tree, native to Asia and the Mediterranean region, produces a fruit known as chasteberry, scientifically recognized as Vitex agnus-castus.
In Germany, it’s a common prescription from healthcare professionals for managing menstrual irregularities, alleviating breast discomfort associated with menstruation, and treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Meanwhile, in the U.S., chasteberry can be found readily over the counter in various forms including capsules, extracts, gummies and tea.
Chasteberry has demonstrated its effectiveness in managing issues related to hormonal fluctuations.
- Studies indicate that chasteberry could potentially alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as lessening the occurrence of hot flashes and night sweats, as well as enhancing mood. This beneficial effect might be attributable to the presence of phytoestrogens in chasteberry, which are natural compounds that emulate the effects of estrogen — a hormone whose production ceases in the ovaries following menopause.[11] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
- In another study, 23 menopausal women were administered vitex oils, leading to reported improvements in menopausal symptoms, such as enhanced mood and sleep quality, with some even experiencing a return of their menstrual cycle. A subsequent study involved a larger cohort of 52 pre- and postmenopausal women, who were given a cream containing vitex. The results showed substantial improvements in 33% of the study participants, while an additional 36% reported moderate enhancements in symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes.[12] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Red Clover
Red clover is a herbaceous plant that has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including relieving symptoms associated with menopause. The high concentration of isoflavones in red clover is believed to mitigate menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats.
A review study suggested that daily intake of 40-80mg of red clover (Promensil) could potentially reduce the frequency of severe hot flashes (5 or more per day) in women by 30-50%.[13] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Isoflavones derived from red clover have been found to effectively decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety in postmenopausal women.[14] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Soy Bean Extract
Soy, present in foods such as tofu and soy milk and also available as a supplement, contains chemical compounds known as isoflavones, which exhibit certain effects similar to estrogen.
- A 2012 research showed that supplements containing soy isoflavones lessened the intensity of hot flashes by slightly over 26 percent in comparison to a placebo.[15]
- Another analytical review conducted in 2015, covering 10 studies, found that plant isoflavones derived from soy and various other sources led to an 11 percent reduction in hot flashes.[16]
- Research indicates that the effectiveness of soy and soy isoflavones in comparison to hormone replacement therapy is not as immediate. The optimal benefit from soy products may require several weeks or even longer to manifest. A 2015 review noted that it takes over 13 weeks for soy isoflavones to attain merely half of their peak effect. In contrast, traditional hormone therapy generally exhibits equivalent benefits within about three weeks.[17] Trusted Website Wiley.com is a U.S. publishing company that specializes in academic content with 200 years of history. Open the link →
Nutrafol: Addressing Hair Changes and Root Causes of Menopausal Imbalances
Nutrafol Women’s Balance is a specially designed product for women undergoing menopausal or perimenopausal changes that affect their hair.
During the onset of menopause, women experience a rapid decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels, while the decline in testosterone is much more gradual. This imbalance, which leads to testosterone dominance, is associated with thinning hair, a wider parting, a receding hairline, and even the growth of unwanted facial hair. Menopause also brings about an increase in stress hormones, a reduction in antioxidant reserves, and changes in metabolism and nutritional needs. Nutrafol Women’s Balance addresses these root causes.
*120 capsules; price as of writing
Based in New York, Nutrafol was established in 2013 and has been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2020 NewBeauty Award, the Top Breakout Beauty and Wellness Brand, and the Top Nutraceutical in the 2019 Aesthetic and Cosmetic Medicine Awards.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Per Capsule |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | 5,000 IU 1,500 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 100 mg |
| Vitamin D | 2,500 IU 62.5 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 2.6 mg |
| Biotin | 2,500 mcg |
| Iodine | 225 mcg |
| Zinc | 20 mg |
| Selenium | 200 mcg |
| SYNERGEN COMPLEX PLUS: Organic Gelatinized Maca Powder Saw Palmetto Co2 Extract Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen I & III Sensoril® Ashwagandha Extract Liposomal Curcumin Extract Full Spectrum Palm Extract Astaxanthin | 1,875 mg |
| NUTRAFOL BLEND: L-Lysine L-Methionine L-Cysteine Horsetail Extract Japanese Knotweed Extract Black Pepper Extract Capsicum Extract | 480 mg |
Key Benefits
- Supports hair growth and reduce hair thinning.
- Reduce inflammation and promote scalp health.
- Boosts overall health and well-being.
- Reduce stress and cortisol levels. Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss, so reducing stress may help to promote healthy hair growth.
How to Use
Once daily, and with a meal, take 4 capsules of your Nutraceutical — an efficacious serving that contributes to visible results in 3-6 months.
Scientific Research
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, alternatively referred to as winter cherry, Indian ginseng, or Withania somnifera, is held in high esteem in the realm of herbal medicine. It appears to aid in stress reduction and balancing stress hormones, thereby supporting a healthy hair growth cycle.
This adaptogenic herb is believed to help the body manage stress by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the brain. The HPA axis is responsible for the production and release of numerous hormones, including cortisol, which triggers the body’s stress response.[18] Trusted Website ScienceDirect.com is a trusted database of scientific and medical publications. Open the link →
A 2019 research project involving 60 participants who consumed 125-300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice per day for an 8-week-period demonstrated reduced stress levels, improved sleep quality, and decreased blood cortisol levels when compared to a control group receiving a placebo.[19] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link → A study from 2012 with a similar methodology also reported comparable outcomes.[20] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Ashwagandha might also have an impact on other hormonal levels. Scientists are investigating its potential effects on insulin and reproductive hormones. A study conducted in 2018 over a span of 8 weeks involving adults with high levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) — a hormone produced by the pituitary gland and used to evaluate thyroid conditions — found that daily intake of 600 mg of concentrated ashwagandha extract led to improved TSH levels.[21] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin, also called “Super Vitamin E,” is recognized for its powerful antioxidant properties that appear to surpass those of vitamin C, E, and other carotenoids. Its ability to scavenge free radicals and support the immune system is believed to be essential in promoting healthy hair growth.
Biotin
Biotin is widely used for the treatment of alopecia, a condition characterized by hair loss in all genders. It plays a vital role in maintaining hair growth and helps alleviate inflammation.
As an essential vitamin, biotin contributes to the production of keratin, a protein responsible for the formation of nails, skin, and hair. Research suggests that biotin can aid in the prevention of balding and hair loss. A 2016 study have indicated that insufficient biotin levels in the body can be associated with hair loss.[22] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
A small-scale study conducted in 2012 showed that women with self-perceived thinning hair experienced improvements in hair thickness and growth after taking a multivitamin containing biotin. However, since the multivitamin contained other ingredients, it is challenging to attribute the positive results solely to biotin.[23] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Curcumin
Curcumin, an active compound found in turmeric, is known for its potent antioxidant properties. It addresses multiple root causes of hair thinning and is 500x more potent than turmeric alone.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone similar to testosterone that’s thought to contribute to hair loss in both men and women. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that curcumin can decrease DHT production from testosterone and prevent hair loss.[24] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Horsetail
Horsetail has gained recognition as a potential remedy for hair care and hair loss, with some studies indicating its ability to promote healthy hair.
Silica, found in horsetail extract, is believed to be advantageous for hair. A 2016 study demonstrated positive outcomes in hair properties, such as increased resistance to breakage, with daily doses of silicon over a 9-month period.[25] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Horsetail also possesses antioxidant properties that contribute to hair health. A 2010 study suggested that horsetail may serve as a source of natural antioxidants and various phytochemicals.[26] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Kelp Minerals
Kelp is a nutrient-rich seaweed that provides several essential elements for maintaining healthy hair.
Vitamins such as A, B, and C, among others, have been identified as crucial for hair health. A study focusing on menopausal women and hair health revealed that vitamins C, group B, A, and other nutrients found in kelp play a significant role in promoting optimal hair condition.[27] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
L-lysine, an amino acid, has shown promise in studies examining nutritional factors related to decreased hair health. Women experiencing increased hair shedding witnessed notable improvements when supplementing with l-lysine and receiving iron therapy.[28] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Iron deficiency has been linked to hair health issues, highlighting the importance of iron in not only promoting lush hair but also supporting overall bodily health.[29] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Additionally, a study explored the potential of laminaria angustata extract, derived from kelp, in enhancing hair growth by nourishing the outer root sheath of hair follicles. The study indicated that laminaria angustata extract promoted cell growth in this region.[30] Trusted Website Wiley.com is a U.S. publishing company that specializes in academic content with 200 years of history. Open the link →
Maca
The maca plant, scientifically known as lepidium meyenii, is commonly referred to as Peruvian ginseng. The maca root, which is the most commonly used part of the plant, contains various nutrients such as fiber, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are believed to promote overall scalp health, encourage healthy hair growth, and potentially prevent hair loss caused by damage and stress hormones.
Maca has also been studied for its potential benefits in relieving symptoms of menopause. A review conducted in 2011, which included four high-quality studies, found evidence suggesting that maca treatment can have favorable effects on menopause symptoms like hot flashes and disrupted sleep.[31] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Limited evidence also indicates that maca may help improve energy levels and enhance mood in certain populations. A study conducted in 2015 on 29 postmenopausal Chinese women discovered that a daily treatment of 3.3 grams of maca for 6 weeks reduced symptoms of depression compared to a placebo treatment.[32] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link → Earlier research findings also indicate that maca may be beneficial in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in postmenopausal women.[33] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Marine Collagen Peptides
Collagen, which is the most plentiful protein in the human body and constitutes tendons, ligaments, and skin, appears to play a role in reducing hair loss and encouraging the growth of new, healthy, and shiny hair. This is particularly notable in women experiencing postpartum hair loss. However, as of now, direct scientific studies confirming these effects are lacking.
Hair largely consists of the protein keratin, which is built from various amino acids, some of which are found in collagen. Upon ingestion, your body breaks down collagen into amino acids, including proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, which it then uses to construct new proteins like keratin. Proline is a significant component of keratin, suggesting that consuming proline-rich collagen may support hair formation. [34] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Collagen, acting as an antioxidant, can combat the harmful effects of free radicals, which research suggests may harm hair follicles. As your body’s ability to resist free radicals diminishes with age, hair damage becomes particularly prevalent among older adults.[35] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link → Studies have also highlighted the potent antioxidant activity of collagen, particularly that derived from fish scales. In one study, marine collagen successfully combated four different free radicals.[36] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Collagen enhances the elasticity and strength of the dermis, but as we age, our bodies produce less collagen and renew dermal cells less efficiently, possibly leading to hair thinning over time. Collagen’s potential to combat skin aging could promote better hair growth and reduce thinning.[37] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link → An eight-week study involving 69 women aged 35-55 revealed that daily collagen supplements notably improved skin elasticity.[38] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link → Another 12-week study involving over 1,000 adults demonstrated that daily collagen supplementation boosted skin collagen levels and diminished signs of skin aging.[39] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Resveratrol
Resveratrol, a naturally occurring flavonoid, offers cellular protection to our skin cells and supports their well-being. It also promotes healthy circulation, which is essential for maintaining optimal hair health and preventing hair loss. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can help mitigate inflammation-related factors contributing to hair loss, potentially preserving the integrity of the hair.[40] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto could potentially aid in combating androgenic alopecia, a hair loss condition commonly known as male and female pattern baldness. This plant extract is believed to block an enzyme that changes testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with this type of hair loss. Higher DHT levels are suspected to shorten hair growth cycles and result in shorter, finer hair strands.[41]
A small study found that a daily 200 mg dose of saw palmetto, combined with beta-sitosterol, reduced hair loss in 60% of men with androgenic alopecia when compared to a placebo.[42] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Another two-year study showed that approximately a third of men with pattern baldness who took a 320 mg daily dose of saw palmetto experienced an increase in hair growth, although this was only half as effective as a conventional hair loss drug, finasteride.[43] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Tocopherol
Often called vitamin E, tocopherol is a compound that, along with other related substances, typically constitutes this essential nutrient. Naturally found in various foods, tocopherol can be obtained from sources such as sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, almonds, and fruits and vegetables like mangoes, avocados, and broccoli.
In a study conducted in 2010, 21 participants received a daily dosage of 100mg of mixed tocotrienols, including alpha, gamma, and delta-tocotrienols, along with 23 IU of alpha-tocopherols, while 17 participants were administered a placebo. Following eight months of this regimen, the group receiving tocotrienols saw a significant 34.5% increase in hair growth in a specific scalp area, in stark contrast to the placebo group, which only registered a marginal 0.1% increase.[44] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Vitamine D
Research indicates that insufficient levels of vitamin D in the body can contribute to hair loss. Vitamin D plays a role in stimulating the growth of new and existing hair follicles. When vitamin D levels are insufficient, it can impede the growth of new hair.[45] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with alopecia, an autoimmune condition characterized by bald patches on the scalp and other areas of the body. Alopecia can affect both men and women. In a separate study, it was found that women between the ages of 18 and 45 who experienced alopecia or other forms of hair loss had low levels of vitamin D.[46] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Vitamine E
Vitamin E has shown promise in enhancing scalp and hair health, according to early research. A small 2010 trial demonstrated that vitamin E supplements improved hair growth in individuals with hair loss, potentially due to its antioxidant properties reducing oxidative stress in the scalp, a factor associated with hair loss.[47] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Vitamin E has the potential to increase blood flow, which is believed to contribute to improved hair health. A separate 2001 study found that increased blood supply stimulated hair growth and enhanced the size of hair follicles in mice.[48] Trusted Website NCBI, US National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a trusted source of biotechnology and biomedicine information. Open the link →
Vitamin E supports the scalp, providing a strong foundation for hair growth by reducing oxidative stress and preserving the protective lipid layer.[49] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Potential Side Effects
Nutrafol has been associated with some potential side effects:
- Digestive discomfort, including symptoms like nausea, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
- Allergic manifestations such as hives, rashes, and itching.
- Potential elevation of testosterone levels in women, which could induce undesirable side effects like acne and hair growth in undesirable areas.
- Possible interactions with certain drugs, specifically anticoagulants and anti-inflammatory medications.
HUM Nutrition: Clinically Proven Relief for Menopause Symptoms and Transparent Research Results
HUM Nutrition Fan Club was created through a partnership with certified dietitians, aiming to alleviate a variety of menopause-related symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, fatigue, and more.
What we find particularly noteworthy is that this supplement has demonstrated its effectiveness in lessening the intensity and frequency of hot flashes, along with mitigating other typical symptoms of menopause. This has been established in a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study conducted by the company involving perimenopausal and menopausal women. The research results are accessible on the company’s website.
*30 Capsules; price as of writing
The entire HUM product line is certified by the Clean Label Project. This certification process involved independent laboratory checks to confirm the potency and purity of the products. It also ensured they are free from artificial sweeteners or colors.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Per Capsule |
|---|---|
| Grape Seed Extract | 300 mg |
| Lactobacillus Plantarum (DR7) | 10 mg |
| Siberian Rhubarb Root Extract (ERr) | 4 mg |
Key Benefits
- Helps to reduce hot flashes and night sweats.
- Improves vaginal dryness.
- Fights fatigue.
- Balances mood swings and irritability.
- Improves restlessness and sleeplessness.
- Helps to relieve heart racing.
- Improves sex drive.
- Balances bladder problems.
- Relieves muscle and joint pain.
How to Use
Take 1 capsule, at any time, with food.
Per the manufacturer’s study, the HUM Nutrition Fan Club starts substantially mitigating symptoms just four weeks following its use, and this impact is enduring.
Scientific Research
Grape Seed Extract
High in proanthocyanidins, which help reduce perceived stress and support improvement of symptoms related to menopause.
Research conducted in 2021 discovered that grape seed extract appeared to have a positive influence on the perception of stress and overall mood, potentially paving the way for new opportunities in mood regulation.[50] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Another study from 2014 demonstrates that proanthocyanidin extract from grape seeds can significantly reduce physical and psychological symptoms of menopause, increase muscle mass, and decrease blood pressure in women of middle age. In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 96 women aged 40 to 60, each experiencing at least one menopausal symptom, participants were given either a low (100 mg/d) or high dose (200 mg/d) of proanthocyanidin, or a placebo, over an eight-week period. Findings showed that women in the high-dose group observed a reduction in physical symptoms, hot flashes, and insomnia after eight weeks. Meanwhile, both dosage groups experienced a decline in anxiety and blood pressure after just four weeks. Furthermore, an increase in muscle mass was noted in both the low and high-dose groups after eight weeks.[51] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
Lactobacillus Plantarum (DR7)
A patented probiotic clinically shown to support the gut-brain axis and improve mood and healthy cortisol levels.
A study conducted in 2019 with 111 participants experiencing moderate stress levels revealed that the use of DR7 could be a natural method to improve psychological function, cognitive health, and memory in stressed adults.During the 12-week trial, the group receiving DR7 displayed notable decreases in stress, anxiety, and overall psychological scores compared to the placebo group, with improvements becoming evident after 8 weeks. Additionally, DR7 showed positive effects on cognitive and memory functions, particularly attention, emotional cognition, and associative learning, in adults aged over 30 years. These benefits were observed in comparison to both the placebo group and younger adults below the age of 30.[52] Trusted Website PubMed is a data base from US National Institutes of Health. It’s a trusted source of health and medical information. Open the link →
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